Laurier’s Magnetic Personality.
Sir Wilfred, then Mr. Laurier, in his early fifties was one of the outstanding figures of the House. His commanding presence, whether in Parliament or in the lobbies, or on the streets of Ottawa, irresistibly attracted the stranger. I well remember his great speech in the Riel Debate of 1886. While I did not agree with Mr. Laurier’s views, yet on re-reading that speech I am bound to say that I agree with what a distinguished publicist has stated: that his address was one of the most brilliant ever delivered in Canada’s legislative halls. As an example of pure eloquence it cannot be excelled.